nova2016The Timmins Chamber of Commerce has officially announced 45 local businesses, organizations and individuals as finalists for the 2016 Nova Business Excellence Awards, the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement.

A panel of six independent community judges narrowed a record-breaking 147 nominations down to three finalists in each of the 15 categories. Representing some of the best and brightest of Timmins’ business community, these finalists will be celebrated at the Nova Awards’ gala evening, to be held at the McIntyre Arena on May 19.

Now in its 14th year, the annual awards gala recognizes the positive impact of the success stories shared by Timmins’ businesses. The quality of the nominees for this year’s awards are a testament to the strength and creativity within Timmins’ business community, said Kurt Bigeau, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“The Nova Awards are really about shining a light on the entrepreneurs that help to make Timmins great, and this year’s finalists are a clear example of just how important that is,” said Bigeau.

“We’re always impressed by the incredible range of truly dynamic businesses that are nominated, and this year is certainly no exception. We can’t wait to help celebrate their achievements on May 19.”

This year’s gala evening will feature a “superheroes of business” theme in recognition of the incredible feats Timmins entrepreneurs perform every day, said Bigeau.

“They might not be leaping buildings in a single bound, but Timmins’ business leaders help our community in countless ways, and the Nova Awards are a great way to applaud them,” said Bigeau. “We’re eager to honour even just a few of the countless people and organizations whose professional powers and exceptional entrepreneurialism make this a truly special place to live, work and play.”

Tickets to the gala event will go on sale March 21: $120 plus HST, or $95 plus HST for Chamber members, and tables of 10 are available. Ticket reservations can be made via email at info@timminschamber.on.ca.

A photo gallery of finalists receiving their notifications is available at www.facebook.com/TimminsChamber

YOUR FINALISTS

  • Northern College Service Excellence Award: Coffee Warehouse, Microtel Inn & Suites Timmins, Trophy Shoppe & Dance Wear
  • RBC Marketing Award: D!Chef, Ramada Timmins, Timmins Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai Academy
  • NorthernTel Productivity, Innovation & Diversification Award: Narrative Interiors, Porcupine Canvas Manufacturing Ltd., Smiles for Life Dental Hygiene Clinic
  • De Beers Canada Aboriginal Partnership Award: Métis Nation of Ontario, Moose Cree Group of Companies Limited, Partnership, Northern College
  • City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Award: Rotary Club of Timmins/Porcupine, Timmins & District Humane Society, Timmins & District Multicultural Centre
  • Collège Boréal Young Professional Award (Under 40): Katelyn Malo (Black Spruce Gallery & Framing), Dr. Karine Briand (Family Eye Care), Jeremy Wilson (Great White Electrical Services)
  • Caisse Populaire de Timmins New Business Award (Under 2 Years): Jump City, Natural Health Solutions, Radical Gardens
  • BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-5 Employees): Logikal Code, Pearly Whites Plus Dental Hygiene Clinic, Tree Bandit
  • The Venture Centre Business Contribution to the Community Award (6-20 Employees): Expertech Auto Inc., Praztek Construction, The Kitchen & Bath Place
  • Eastlink Business Contribution to the Community Award (21+ Employees): Fountain Tire, Kidd Operations, Timmins Building Supplies
  • FNETB Best Place to Work Award: Allstate Insurance, Cain Safety Fire Protection Inc., Chartwell Chateau Georgian Retirement Residence
  • TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award (1-5 Employees): Bliss Beauty Bar, Le Loup FM, NEO LASER TAG INC
  • Scotiabank Business of the Year Award (6-20 Employees): Blue Heron Environmental, Dabrowski’s Smoked Meats Ltd., Eastview RV
  • Northern Credit Union Business of the Year Award (21+ Employees): DeBastos & Sons Ltd., Northern Industrial Services Group Inc., Pick of the Crop
  • National Bank Lifetime Business Achievement Award: BMT Insurance and Financial Services, Goldcorp – Porcupine Gold Mines, Porcupine Advance Printers